word
timbre
TAM-ber
ˈtæmbərListen
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Syllable breakdown
timbre
Sounds like
Often anglicised to 'TAM-ber'. The French original is closer to 'TAM-bruh'.
Dictionary meaning
The characteristic quality of a musical sound, distinguishing different instruments or voices.
History and origin
French — 'timbre' (bell, drum).
Examples
- The oboe and the flute can play the same note, but their timbre is instantly distinct.
Common mispronunciations
TIM-berTIM-bruh
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